Information on Master’s Degree Programs in Curriculum Development
Majors Overview July 18, 2015This article talks about master’s degree programs in curriculum development and their education requirements, coursework, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Master’s Programs in Curriculum Development
An in-depth grasp of instructional methods and how they relate to various learning theories is available to students enrolled in a master’s degree program in curriculum and instruction. Through application of assessment skills acquired in the program, students employ scientific research methods in generating and analyzing data aiming to guide curriculum development.
Students become competent in research through the in-depth study of the pluses and minuses of a variety of curriculum models. Enrollees in curriculum development programs are allowed to customize program coursework to suit their career; this allows for the pursuit of specific issues, such as educational policy, language in education, or bilingual education. Program graduates are trained to devise educational programs for students and teachers in secondary and elementary schools.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a baccalaureate degree. Schools encourage applicants to have prior teaching experience though it is not a mandatory requirement. A teaching certificate may be a preference for some schools. Simultaneous pursuit of teacher certification along with the master’s degree is allowed at other schools.
Coursework
The general focus of coursework is on detailed strategies devised to assess and restructure curriculum. Original research is also a requirement for students. They also complete a thesis project in some programs. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•School curriculum
•Designing staff development programs
•Curriculum interpretation and design
•Curriculum and instruction practice
•Curriculum theory
•Curriculum and program evaluation
•Supporting readers
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, respective job growth rates of 12%, 6%, and 13% were predicted for elementary school teachers, high school teachers, and instructional coordinators. In May 2012, these professionals brought in respective average annual wages of $53,090, $55,050 and $60,050. Postsecondary teachers, projected to see 19% job growth in the 2012 – 2022 decade, earned $68,970 per annum, on average, during May 2012 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Continuing Education Choices
Program graduates who seek continuing education may pursue doctoral degrees in education with specializations in curriculum and instruction or curriculum development. There are various options for teachers to find sponsorships through the International Reading Association and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
